Use of Technology as Support System for Prison Inmates in the National Open University of Nigeria Study Center, Kirikiri-Lagos

Abstract

Total incarceration is a major feature of the prison as a place where people are kept because they have sinned against the society. The reality in the age grade of the prisoners has however shown that most of them are of very active age grade of 20-35 years. This is a period of life when people of this age grade are supposed to be educated and capable of contributing to the economy of the society. Therefore complete incarceration without formal education invariably could constitute a drag in the economy of any society. The National Open University of Nigeria has therefore provided access to learning where the inmates could be assisted to acquire knowledge and skills by creating a Special Study Center in the Kirikiri Maximum security Prison in Lagos, Nigeria. This paper therefore investigates the various support systems that are involved in the task of helping the learners to gain access to learning with the use of technology despite their condition under incarceration. It is hoped that when prison inmates have access to education through the appropriate technological support, they would be able to contribute their quota to the economic development of the society after serving their jail term. Learning would also enhance reformation strategy of the prison authorities. It was suggested that private organizations should collaborate with the National Open University of Nigeria in making the technological support system a permanent strategy to help the inmates learn through a functional open and distance learning that is technology supported.

Key Words: Synchronous Learning, Flexibility in Learning, Specialised Training, Learner Support Services, Technology, Instructional Delivery System, On-line Support, Distance Learning, Access to Education, Technical Staff, Student Counselors, Customised Programmes,